Resident Evil 5 goes for the Gold

Capcom is ready to breathe new life into Resident Evil 5, as the publisher today detailed its North American plans for the extra content of the game's Japanese "Alternative Edition" release. After surveying its customers on whether they prefer digital or retail distribution, the publisher has chosen both. Early next year, Capcom will release the new content in a pair of downloadable add-ons, followed by a comprehensive retail release of the Xbox 360 and PlayStation 3 game.

For those who already own the game, the Lost in Nightmares episode and costume pack will be downloadable starting February 17 on the Xbox 360 and February 18 on the PS3. A second, as-yet untitled episode and costume pack will follow for the 360 and PS3 on March 3 and 4, respectively. The additions will also include a new Mercenaries Reunion mode that will add eight new characters to the action-heavy RE5 feature, each with their own weapon loadouts.

The publisher today also announced Resident Evil 5: Gold Edition, a $50 package set to launch March 9. The Gold Edition includes the acclaimed survival horror game and all of its add-ons, as well as the newly announced updates set for early next year. Resident Evil 5 Gold Edition will be released on a single Blu-ray disc for PS3 owners, while the Xbox 360 edition of the game will come with a code to download the extra content.

One of the biggest features of the Japanese Alternative Edition release is the PS3 version's compatibility with Sony's motion-sensing controller. However, that feature's fate is not yet set in stone for the North American market.

"We're in talks with Sony in North America and Europe about the motion controller," a Capcom representative told GameSpot. "We're still waiting for clarification of their plans for the controller outside of Japan."